1991 Mazda 323 vs. 1978 Plymouth Volare
To start off, 1991 Mazda 323 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Plymouth Volare. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Plymouth Volare would be higher. At 3,685 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Plymouth Volare is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Plymouth Volare (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Plymouth Volare should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Plymouth Volare weights approximately 560 kg more than 1991 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Plymouth Volare is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Plymouth Volare. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1978 Plymouth Volare (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1978 Plymouth Volare will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 323 | 1978 Plymouth Volare | |
| Make | Mazda | Plymouth |
| Model | 323 | Volare |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 3685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2870 mm |
